Bill > HB1877

This bill modifies existing Missouri campaign finance law to allow public officials and candidates to use campaign funds for childcare expenses directly related to campaigning or performing official duties. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that permits campaign contributions to cover child care costs that would not have been incurred if not for campaign activities or official duties, with the important caveat that these expenses must provide for the child's well-being and protection, and cannot be paid to a member of the candidate's household. The bill carefully defines these childcare expenses as a distinct category of permissible campaign expenditure, placing it within a list of other allowed uses of campaign funds such as campaign expenses, official duties, constituent entertainment, returning contributions, and making charitable donations. This change aims to reduce financial barriers for candidates and officeholders with childcare responsibilities, potentially making public service more accessible to parents. The bill maintains existing restrictions on personal use of campaign funds and includes provisions about how campaign funds must be managed and eventually disposed of, ensuring transparency and appropriate use of campaign contributions.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1877&year=2026&code=R